These appliances need cleaning after every use.

A quick wipe-down daily will keep surfaces at their best.

Skipstore-bought productsand use distilled white vinegar as a homemade stainless steel cleaner.

person wiping a stainless steel dishwasher

The Spruce / Margot Cavin

Warning

When cleaning stainless steel, never use oven cleaner, scouring powders, or chlorine-based cleaners.

These are harsh and abrasive and can permanently damage the steel.

Also, avoid abrasive sponges, scrubbing pads, or steel wool, which can scratch stainless steel permanently.

Using Vinegar as a Stainless Steel Cleaner

The Spruce / Emilie Dunphy

However, the pungent smell dissipates in just a few minutes.

To dissipate vinegar odor faster, open a window or turn on a fan for extra airflow.

Tap water can leave spots or streaks on your stainless steel.

person using vinegar spray on stainless steel

The Spruce / Margot Cavin

Use baking soda or vinegar to kill bacteria or remove odors for a deeper clean.

Or, add two tablespoons of vinegar, warm water, and shake.

Empty and rinse with clean water.

person wiping down a dishwasher

The Spruce / Margot Cavin

Acetic acid.Virginia Department of Health.

Wiping down the stainless steel with water

The Spruce / Margot Cavin